Do you know the difference between people photography and portrait photography? People photography is simply snapping pictures of friends without thinking of how it might turn out. Portrait photography gets photos one step closer to looking like they were shot by a professional. There are many elements to be considered in portrait photography. One is the angle at which you take the photograph, the expression of emotion on the subject's face, and the lighting that will be used. Just because you may be an amateur snapping photos at a family gathering, you still need the same basic knowledge which is used by professionals.
First when taking a photograph of a person you need to study their face. The face is important to the angle you will shoot from. Though it is a clich, it is true some people have a better side. This could be in relation to scarring or acne breakouts or even something simpler. For instance my left eye is larger than my right by just a bit, and looking head on into the camera will cause a horrible portrait, however if the photographer comes from the right side and angles up a little the light and shadows will help even out the features while keeping the distinctions that make me who I am.
It is important in portrait photography to capture the subject's spirit and personality. This is accomplished easier if the subject is very relaxed. In addition to paying close attention to the subject while you are taking pictures, meeting with them before the session is a good practice for a professional photographer. Pay special attention to anything about the subject's face that can add character to the portrait. This aspect of shooting professional quality photographs should be much easier if the subjects are friends are family whom you already know.
Lighting is the second crucial step in portrait photography. It is very common for photographers to prefer natural light over artificial. With natural light, you will need to create the contrast with shadows and lighting for the effect you want. This often requires compensating for the cameras lack of definition. This can be accomplished by manually setting the camera's aperture. Unless artificial light is in a studio, it is often too harsh and not directed properly. Your subject will partly decide what light will be available. Since you can only use whatever light you have, you will need to rely on the manual settings on your camera to perfect your portrait.
The background is also important when discussing light. In a studio a photographer will pick a background that will not wash your features out or your clothing. They want to have a distinction or contrast between you and the background. This is also important of home portrait photography. You will want a background that gives color to your subject rather than taking it away. Finding a nice spot with a tree to sit on and mountains in the background can be a great portrait, but you will want to make sure the background is not too busy to distract from the subject. Make the subject seem apart of the picture rather than outside of it.
Of course the quality and type of camera and film also determine the quality of your photograph. Once you get to know your subject and use the methods used by professionals such as angles and lighting, you will be able to create a more professional portrait for your family and friends for any occasion. Wouldn't creating a portrait be much better than simply snapping a picture?
If you need a professional photographer in St. Louis or just want to see examples of professional portraits visit St. Louis Photographer.
Orignal From: How To Make Your Portrait Photography Look More Professional
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